I Agree with Mato that ''Keshi lacks tolerance and forgiving spirit''

Former Commissioner for Sport in Ondo State, Mr John Ola Mafo, believes coach Stephen Keshi is at fault for dropping West Bromwich Albion forward, Osaze Odemwingie from the list of players invited for the final phase of camping ahead of the 2013 Africa Cup Nations.

The former Bendel Insurance striker made an outburst on twitter after his exclusion from the Eagles’ provisional list.

“I think on the issue of Osaze, Keshi has allowed his personal feelings to overide national issue. He based his decision to exclude Osaze on what he did in December 2011, which shows that he lacks tolerance and forgiving spirit.’’

Speaking further, Mafo said Keshi should have taken a cue from previous Nigerian coaches who managed to tame controversial players like Tarila Okorowanta and Etim Esin as well as Manchester City manager, Roberto Mancini who has been able to handle players like Mario Balotelli and Carlos Tevez.

‘’Even as he (Keshi) was tough during his playing days, he still featured for Nigeria for many years and was even the captain despite being the leader of the mafia group,’’ added Mafo.

He argued that a coach must have a large heart to accommodate players, saying, ‘’some players could be tough off the pitch but they are stars on the pitch.’’

Mafo also expressed fears that the exclusion of left back, Taye Taiwo could be counter-productive, stressing that the Eagles should boast of at least two players in each department.
http://www.tribune.com.ng/news2013/index.php/en/sports/item/2030-keshi%E2%80%99s-decision-on-odemwingie-personal-%E2%80%94mafo